By the time their discussion had more or less run its course, Muse revealed the mechanical armament he was currently crafting to Angel.
Mechanical armament did indeed resemble mecha somewhat. But compared with the more advanced concept of mecha—full-body coverage and automatic operation—it was more like a wearable exoskeleton, which made Angel think of his Phantom Limb.
However, upon closer comparison, it was still different from the Phantom Limb.
The stronger the physical body, the stronger the Phantom Limb itself became.
But with mechanical armament, the stronger the alchemist's techniques, the stronger its effects became.
In terms of potential alone, Angel felt that the Phantom Limb might have the edge. But mechanical armament excelled in convenience. It could be enchanted, spells could be solidified into it, and it could be strengthened in all kinds of ways. It could also be replaced at any time, without consuming one's own magic source.
All in all, the two were similar in some respects, yet each had its own strengths. In Angel's view, setting physical strength aside and comparing only the Phantom Limb with mechanical armament, once the latter took shape, it would certainly be superior.
After Muse introduced his mechanical armament, he made a request of Angel.
"May I incorporate some of the ideas you mentioned into the mechanical armament I'm currently making?"
Muse paused. "Of course, I won't take advantage of you. I'll give you appropriate compensation."
Angel froze for a moment. What he had spoken of were merely ideas and concepts; there was still a long road before they could truly be put into practice. If Muse wanted to turn those ideas into reality, the road ahead would likely be very long indeed.
Besides, he had already said these things to Midora before, so Angel had never intended to treasure his